Miniature Pinschers: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Miniature Pinscher breed

The Miniature Pinscher!

The Miniature Pinscher has a lean, compact, and evenly proportioned build, with small paws, straight forelegs, and a usually docked tail. The breed is known for its high stepping pace. It has a sturdy muzzle, a scissors type bite, sometimes cropped ears, and dark elliptical eyes. This breed’s origin is not clear, though some old paintings of as far back as the 17th century carry depictions of small scarlet dogs that look like the Miniature Pinscher.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years

Energy Level:
Very Energetic.

Living Conditions:
Indoor only.

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
Regular yard play.

Breed Group:
Terrier

Size:
Small

Height:
10 to 12 inches

Weight:
8 to 10 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Red, chocolate or a black and tan combination.

National breed club:
Miniature Pinscher Club of America

Miniature Pinscher Skills

A terrier breed developed in Germany, the Miniature Pinscher was originally made use of in stables as a vermin hunter. It became a popular dog show competitor in Germany before the First World War. These days, this widely recognized toy breed has become a preferred companion and watchdog, and is still valued for its talent in competitive obedience and agility.

Miniature Pinscher Personality

The Miniature Pinscher, at times affectionately called the Min Pin, is rarely caught inactive. This lively breed is always on the move, and is one of the most energetic breeds. Adventurous and always probing, this dog needs to be kept within enclosed areas to keep it from running after other animals of its size. This feisty dog is usually unfriendly toward strangers, and will need to be housetrained and properly disciplined or it will prove to be a nuisance. It needs to be socialized early on, and its quick-learning ability should be maximized with training courses.

Exercise Needs

Although it can meet its exercise needs even when left alone, this breed will benefit from regular play sessions. Aside from a good dose of games, the Miniature Pinscher should be left without a leash in a secure area from time to time.

Living Conditions

Because of its size, the Miniature Pinscher makes a good apartment dog. It tends to be quite active within the home, though it should not be made to live outdoors. This breed is not suitable to cold climates, although it should be allowed to enjoy the outdoors in moderate weather conditions.

Grooming Requirements

The coat of the Miniature Pinscher is not difficult to maintain, as occasional brushing and shampooing would be enough. When it sheds, wipe with a washcloth soaked in lukewarm water to take away loose hair strands.

Health Issues

There are no major health concerns for this breed, although patellar luxation and Legg-Perthes have been previously observed in the breed.

If you liked this dog…

...you might also like the toy variety of the Manchester terrier, which has the same watchdog ability in a diminutive build.